Management of tumor lysis syndrome: prevention and treatment.

OBJECTIVES

To provide a review of the preventive and treatment strategies for tumor lysis syndrome (TLS).

DATA SOURCES

Primary and tertiary literature and clinical experience.

CONCLUSIONS

The oncology nurse can optimize outcomes in the patient at risk for TLS through a variety of prevention and treatment interventions: (1) aggressive patient monitoring for early identification and treatment; (2) minimize risk factors via thorough medication and nutritional histories, and assurance of proper prophylactic regimens; (3) assessment of optimal routes of drug delivery to assure medication bioavailability; and (4) reinforcement of the above with comprehensive patient education.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

Awareness and effective use of prophylactic and treatment regimens related to TLS will positively impact patient outcomes. The oncology nurse is at the front line to identify issues related to effective management of TLS.